“Madeleine joined our family as a postpartum doula when my son was about 1 month old. She was with us more or less every day for the following two months (it only ended there because we had to move). Every time she came through our door, I knew that all was well. Her presence with us was so assuring, so life affirming for me at that time, so essential.
To this day (my son is now 6 months old), there is no one I would more deeply trust with my child. She is a rare and exceptional person who has made such a deep impact in our hearts and in our lives. We will be eternally grateful for the imprint that her presence and care has left on us.”
- Charlotte, mom to baby S
POSTPARTUM DOULA SUPPORT
I believe you should be cared for through the entirety of the childbearing year, not just in pregnancy and birth. You deserve to have dedicated support as your body heals and your identity shifts around your new family. I take a holistic approach to the postpartum period, with a deep understanding that your emotional wellbeing is just as important as your physical recovery. As a Certified Lactation Counselor, my postpartum work often involves helping new parents figure out their feeding goals, and helping to resolve many of the common issues that arise during this time. Breastfeeding and chestfeeding are wonderful and normal, but that doesn’t mean it’s always intuitive or easy! I help you build your confidence as you develop this beautiful feeding relationship with your new baby. (And if you’re planning on bottle feeding, I support you, too!) I’m honored to nurture you through your “fourth trimester.”
Postpartum care with me can include, but is not limited to:
Breastfeeding/ chestfeeding/ bottle feeding support
Physical and emotional support for the birthing parent and new family unit
Guidance in baby care — swaddling, soothing techniques, baths, newborn tips and tricks, etc.
Reassurance of what’s normal — newborns are funky little things!
Connecting you with resources where needed (acupuncture, pelvic floor specialists, craniosacral therapy for baby/parent, new parent support groups, breastfeeding support groups, therapists, etc.)
Taking care of your baby while you shower, sleep, eat, or have some time to yourself
Taking care of older siblings and/or taking care of the baby so you can have some dedicated time with your other children or your partner
Grocery shopping and/or food preparation — nutritious, whole, vibrant foods are so important during this time
Light housework (tidying up, laundry, dishes, etc.) to help keep your space as calm as possible
Prenatal baby shower registry (what do you actually need?)
Nursery organization (best if done before the baby arrives, but it’s never too late!)
Home organization
Making a back-to-work plan